Odds slashed on David Moyes replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United

Market mover: Moyes is a big favourite to be the next Manchester United boss (Picture: EPA)

The odds on David Moyes becoming the next Manchester United manager have been slashed after bookmakers took a flurry of overnight bets on the Everton boss moving to Old Trafford.

The rush of money appears to be linked to United boss Sir Alex Ferguson’s admission last week that he will have hip surgery this summer, which could see him miss the start of next season.

One theory being touted is that Moyes could fill in during any leave period and then work alongside his fellow Scot as his assistant before finally taking the reins whenever Ferguson finally decides to retire.

Rumours are also rife that the Scot could even retire at the end of this season to be immediately replaced by Moyes, although Ferguson has said he has no thoughts of quitting after securing a record 20th Premier League title for United this term.

Reduced service: Ferguson may miss part of next season as he recovers from a hip operation (Picture: Reuters)

Moyes has long been considered a strong candidate to replace Ferguson.

His ability to assemble fine teams on limited budgets has won him many admirers, with the sixth-placed Toffees impressively in with a chance to secure European football for the fifth time in 11 seasons under Moyes.

The 50-year-old’s Goodison Park contract expires this summer, and he has said he will decide on his future at the end of the season.

Odds as low as 1-2 can be had on Moyes becoming the next permanent United boss, while one bookie offers 6/4 he will be on Old Trafford’s wage bill in some capacity by the start of next term.